Cold sores, which are also sometimes called oral herpes, are fluid-filled blisters that can occur on the lips, gums or even on the roof of a mouth. Besides the prescriptions medication available from the doctor, there are a number of different types of natural remedies for cold sores. Almost everyone has contracted herpes simplex virus type 1 by adulthood, according to the U.S. In some people the HSV-1 infection causes cold sores, which erupt following a trigger event such as a cold. Most people experience localised itching and tingling a day or two before the cold sore appears. Lysine is an "essential" amino acid, meaning that it must be obtained through food or supplements because it can't be produced by the body alone. A member of the mint family, this potent herb has been used for centuries to reduce anxiety and stress, common triggers for cold-sore flare-ups.
The most convincing clinical evidence of its effectiveness, according to a recent issue of the journal Alternative and Complementary Therapies, was a study showing that a cream containing the herb reduced redness and swelling after only two days.
Another tea that's shown to be effective at combating cold sores, green tea is rich in an antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, which is thought to have antiviral properties. In a November 2012 study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology, scientists from Georgia Health Sciences University discovered that EGCG reduced the proliferation of herpes type 1 cells by 92 percent. Two to 3 cups of green tea per day, or green tea compresses on a cold sore, will give you high levels of EGCG. If you're a fan of mushrooms, another natural remedy for cold sores that you might want to consider is that of Reishi.
Though the jury's out as to whether zinc will do anything for your cold, it could make a cold sore go away faster.
This treatment could be better than drugs, according to research from the United Arab Emirates. None of these treatments will prevent you from ever having another cold sore, and you can still shed, or transmit, the virus when cold sores are developing. Avoid getting ill or run down - eat a balanced diet and ensure you get sufficient rest and sleep.
If all else fails and you do have an outbreak, take measures not to invite the virus back again.

Tell us in the comments below how you prevent or treat your cold sore out breaks and what your favorite, proven natural remedy is. L-lysine deficiency is not a very common problem, yet people who are extremely athletic or strict vegetarians may find that they have this condition. Athletes low in L-lysine should add more sources of meat protein into their diet if they find that they are L-lysine deficient. Eating foods rich in L-lysine can help relieve several conditions; however, taking a L-lysine supplement may provide more relief for these conditions. While there is no cure for the primary virus, there are some highly effective natural ways to prevent and treat an infection. Or steep 2 to 4 teaspoons of crushed lemon balm in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. This is a type of mushroom that has a long history of use in traditional Asian medicine to strengthen the immune system. In addition, it is available both in powder or supplement form, making it a convenient choice. Test-tube studies have shown that zinc can kill up to 98 percent of herpes simplex type 1 cells, but real-world studies haven't been as conclusive.
In a small study of 16 people, the researchers found that topical applications of honey shortened the duration of cold sores 35 percent better than acyclovir, the active ingredient in prescription herpes antiviral treatments. But any one of these is certainly less expensive than a prescription or over-the-counter cold-sore medication—and will have you back to your smiling self as soon as possible. We believe that your body is worthy of good care and that no one is more suitably qualified to care for it than yourself.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it plays an essential role in the production of carnitine, a nutrient responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helping to lower cholesterol.
It also helps the body form collagen, which is necessary for healthy bones, tendons, cartilage and skin. Red meats have the highest L-lysine content; however, pork and poultry also contain lysine. Signs for L-lysine deficiency include kidney stones, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, agitation, bloodshot eyes, impeded growth, anemia and reproductive disorders.
Vegetarians should add legumes like beans, peas, lentils and soy into their diet to increase L-lysine intake.

L-lysine can be beneficial in the treatment of herpes, shingles, osteoporosis, inflammation, episiotomy pain, migraine relief and painful periods. Discover the best foods and remedies to treat cold sores plus learn how to identify your triggers and prevent future outbreaks!
A word of caution though; this particular natural remedy for cold sores can delay blood clotting, so be sure to talk to your doctor if you take aspirin, or any other medication that may interfere with clotting.
Research from New Zealand found that four different types of honey were able to kill the virus in test tubes, suggesting that any unprocessed, raw honey (which has the highest levels of antiviral compounds) might help treat a cold sore. Replace the toothbrush you've used during a flare-up and shave with a disposable razor so you can throw that out, too. Think of us as your nutritional consultants and know that we are here with you on your journey to a healthier life. Foods like pastries, doughnuts, cookies and some cereals should be avoided, especially if you are suffering from a L-lysine deficiency. It is important to speak to a physician if any of these signs are evident before taking a L-lysine supplement. It is generally transferred by kissing or coming into close contact with someone who has an active outbreak. It is also recommended that you wash towels, pillowcases and bedding, in boiling water if possible, to kill the virus.
Other foods high in L-lysine include cod, sardines, nuts, eggs, soybeans, tofu, soy flour and fenugreek seed.
A diet high in these and similar simple sugars could prevent you from reaping the best benefits from L-lysine. Following primary infection, the virus will remain with you for life and any number of triggers can cause an outbreak. Stopping cold sores before they start is about identifying your triggers and taking preventative action before they occur.